Are you looking to add greenery to your home but you’re short on space? DIY vertical garden projects can transform walls, fences, and even small indoor areas into lush, green displays.
Vertical gardening makes the most of limited areas, bringing nature indoors and sprucing up outdoor spaces. This article covers 15 creative DIY vertical garden ideas that you can easily recreate at home on any budget. We’ll explore beginner-friendly options, eco-friendly setups, and budget ideas to fit every style.
Budget-Friendly Indicators
- Low-cost = primarily using free or repurposed items.
- Moderate cost = some purchased materials but budget-friendly.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Outdoor Gardens
A vertical herb spiral is an innovative DIY vertical garden idea for growing a variety of herbs in a compact area. This project maximizes vertical space and creates different microclimates, allowing herbs with varying water and sun needs to thrive together.
Materials Needed:
- Stones, bricks, or untreated wood (often found in landscaping or reused from older projects)
- Soil, compost, and organic matter (like worm castings or leaf litter)
- Drainage pipe and cardboard (for weed suppression)
Reusing Tip: For this DIY vertical garden project, try sourcing stones or bricks from home improvement stores’ leftovers or nearby building sites, where extras are sometimes available for free.
Instructions:
- Mark a 5-6 foot diameter circle where you’ll build the spiral.
- Create a shallow trench around the perimeter.
- Begin stacking your chosen materials in a spiral, adding soil as you build upwards.
- Arrange to create a moisture gradient, with drier areas at the top and moist zones at the bottom.
Ideal Plants for a Herb Spiral:
- Top (Dry Zone): Rosemary, thyme, oregano
- Mid-Level: Basil, sage, chives
- Bottom (Moist Zone): Mint, parsley, cilantro
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Provides multiple planting levels
- Supports various herbs in one structure
Cons
- Requires outdoor space
- Takes time and effort to build
HOT TIP
This DIY vertical garden idea is great for small outdoor spaces or urban settings. Adjust the height and width according to your available area.
2. Recycled Tin Can Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Low | Best for: Indoor and Outdoor Gardens
This is a creative and eco-friendly DIY vertical garden project. By repurposing empty cans, you can create charming planters for herbs, succulents, or flowers. This setup is highly customizable and suitable for small kitchens or patios. You can mount the tin cans on a wall, or place them near your window or everywhere you like.
Materials Needed:
- Clean, empty cans (labels removed)
- Can opener, hammer, drill, screws
- Exterior spray paint (optional) and weatherproof sealant
- Potting soil and selected plants
Instructions:
- Remove both ends of each can using a can opener.
- Flatten one end for easier wall mounting (if mounting).
- Drill drainage holes at the bottom and add a small hole near the top for hanging.
- Decorate the cans with paint, seal with weatherproof coating, and mount them.
Ideal Plants for a Tin Can Garden:
- Herbs: Basil, thyme, oregano
- Succulents: Sedum, jade plant, echeveria
- Annuals: Marigolds, petunias
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Budget-friendly and eco-friendly
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Limited root space for larger plants
- Regular watering is needed due to small size
HOT TIP
Arrange cans in a grid or staggered pattern to add a decorative touch to your wall.
3. Wooden Crate Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Moderate | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Outdoor Patios and Indoor Spaces
A wooden crate vertical garden is a rustic yet practical DIY vertical garden project. Wooden crates add a natural, rustic charm to your garden, making them ideal for patios, balconies, or indoor spaces. Plus, they provide plenty of room for growing flowers, herbs, and vegetables.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden crates (new or repurposed)
- Exterior paint, staple gun, landscaping fabric
- Potting soil, drill, screws
- Plants of your choice
Reusing Tip: Check local grocery stores or farmers’ markets for free or low-cost crates. They often discard them after deliveries.
Instructions:
- Paint and seal the crates for outdoor use.
- Attach crates to a vertical support frame, leaving space between each.
- Line each crate with landscaping fabric, secure it with staples, and fill it with soil.
Ideal Plants for Wooden Crates:
- Herbs: Basil, thyme, parsley
- Succulents: Aloe vera, hen and chicks
- Vegetables: Lettuce, spinach, radishes
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Large planting space
- Versatile for various plants
Cons
- Requires sturdy support structure
- Wood may require periodic treatment
HOT TIP
For outdoor setups, position drought-tolerant plants in the upper crates and moisture-loving plants in the lower ones for efficient watering.
4. Fabric Pocket Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Indoor and Outdoor Walls
A fabric pocket vertical garden offers a flexible, space-saving solution for small spaces. This DIY vertical garden style can be easily mounted on walls or fences and works well in both indoor gardens and outdoor settings.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric pockets (felt, landscaping fabric, or repurposed shoe organizers)
- Potting soil, selected plants
- Mounting system (hooks, screws)
Reusing Tip: Repurpose an old fabric shoe organizer by cutting and reinforcing the pockets, then mounting it on a wall.
Instructions:
- Secure the fabric pockets to your wall or support structure.
- Create drainage holes in each pocket to prevent water buildup.
- Fill pockets with lightweight potting soil and water before planting.
Ideal Plants for Fabric Pockets:
- Herbs: Mint, cilantro, basil
- Succulents: Sedum, kalanchoe
- Flowers: Petunias, nasturtiums
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Great for small, vertical spaces
- Portable and easy to set up
Cons
- Requires regular watering
- Limited space for root growth
HOT TIP
For indoor pockets, use low-light, humidity-friendly plants such as pothos or ferns.
5. Vertical Pallet Strawberry Planter
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Cost: Low to Moderate | Best for: Small Outdoor Areas
The pallet strawberry planter is a creative way to grow strawberries in limited outdoor spaces. Pallets provide vertical support for strawberry plants, creating a bountiful, space-saving setup for fresh fruit.
Materials Needed:
- Heat-treated pallet (“HT” stamped, often free from shipping or construction sites)
- Landscape fabric, potting soil, compost
- Strawberry plants, drill, staple gun
Reusing Tip: Many warehouses and businesses give away pallets free; just ensure it’s marked “HT” for heat-treated.
Instructions:
- Wrap the back and sides of the pallet with landscape fabric, securing it with staples.
- Fill the openings with a mix of potting soil and compost.
- Plant strawberries in each opening, and allow the roots to establish before positioning the pallet upright.
Ideal Strawberry Varieties:
- June-bearing strawberries for a large, seasonal harvest
- Ever-bearing strawberries for a steady supply
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Ideal for small outdoor spaces
- Yields fresh strawberries in season
Cons
- May need frequent watering in warm weather
- Requires sunlight for optimal fruiting
HOT TIP
To encourage fruit production, remove strawberry runners that appear throughout the growing season.
Recommended read: 11 Inspiring Types of Vertical Gardens for Your Home and Garden.
6. Stacked Terracotta Pot Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Low to Moderate | Best for: Small Patios and Balconies
This is a charming and rustic DIY vertical garden project. This setup uses a series of descending terracotta pots to create a vertical garden that works well in compact outdoor areas.
Materials Needed:
- Terracotta pots in various sizes
- Potting soil, plants
- Sturdy rod or stake for stability
Reusing Tip: Look for secondhand pots at thrift stores or ask friends and family for any unused ones.
Instructions:
- Place the largest pot at the bottom, fill it with soil, and insert the rod in the center.
- Stack smaller pots on top, ensuring the rod passes through the center hole for stability.
- Fill each pot with soil and plants, leaving space for growth.
Ideal Plants for Stacked Pots:
- Herbs: Basil, rosemary, oregano
- Succulents: Aloe, echeveria
- Flowers: Marigolds, violets
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Adds vertical interest to small spaces
- Easy to create and maintain
Cons
- Limited root space in smaller pots
- May need extra stability for outdoor use
HOT TIP
Use ice cubes for slow-melting hydration on hot days to prevent soil runoff.
7. Hanging Shoe Organizer Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Low | Best for: Indoor Spaces and Small Balconies
A hanging shoe organizer garden is a clever DIY vertical gardening hack for small spaces. This project is ideal for fresh herbs, flowers, or small vegetables, especially on balconies or patios.
Materials Needed:
- Hanging shoe organizer
- Potting soil, plants
- Sturdy rod or pole for hanging
Reusing Tip: Use an old shoe organizer to cut costs. Reinforce pockets with fabric if they’re worn.
Instructions:
- Hang the organizer on a sunny wall or fence using a rod or pole.
- Add drainage holes to each pocket if needed.
- Fill each pocket with soil and plants, leaving enough space for roots to grow.
Ideal Plants for a Shoe Organizer Garden:
- Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, thyme
- Flowers: Petunias, nasturtiums
- Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, lettuce
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Great for indoor or balcony spaces
- Budget-friendly and portable
Cons
- Limited soil depth
- May dry out quickly in hot weather
HOT TIP
Add water-retaining crystals to help with moisture retention in each pocket.
8. Bamboo Pole Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Moderate | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Outdoor Gardens and Patios
A bamboo pole vertical garden provides a natural, eco-friendly structure for climbing plants. This versatile DIY vertical garden project adds vertical height to small outdoor areas and creates a lush, green wall effect.
Materials Needed:
- Bamboo poles (about 5.5 feet tall)
- Potting soil, climbing plants
- Sturdy cord for lashing poles together
Reusing Tip: Bamboo can often be harvested sustainably from local growth (ask landowners for permission if necessary).
Instructions:
- Arrange bamboo poles in a desired shape, lashing them together for stability.
- Create a frame that can support the weight of climbing plants.
- Place soil and climbing plants at the base, training them up the bamboo as they grow.
Ideal Plants for a Bamboo Pole Garden:
- Vegetables: Beans, peas
- Flowers: Morning glories, jasmine
- Herbs: Climbing rosemary
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Eco-friendly and natural structure
- Perfect for climbing plants
Cons
- Requires some assembly
- Limited to outdoor use for larger plants
HOT TIP
Use rebar stakes for added stability in high-wind areas.
9. Upcycled Wooden Box Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Low | Best for: Small Patios, Balconies, and Indoor Spaces
An upcycled wooden box garden combines rustic charm with eco-friendly design. Repurposing wooden boxes into a DIY vertical garden adds charm to your space, while also maximizing growing area.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden boxes (repurposed from crates or fruit boxes)
- Exterior paint, staple gun, landscaping fabric
- Potting soil, selected plants
Reusing Tip: Wooden boxes are often discarded at grocery stores or farmers’ markets—ask if you can take them for free.
Instructions:
- Sand and paint the boxes, sealing them for outdoor use.
- Attach boxes to a vertical support frame, leaving space between each for planting.
- Line boxes with landscaping fabric, secure them with staples, and fill them with soil.
Ideal Plants for Wooden Boxes:
- Herbs: Basil, thyme, sage
- Flowers: Pansies, petunias
- Succulents: Jade plant, sedum
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Eco-friendly and budget-friendly
- Adds rustic charm
Cons
- Limited soil depth
- Boxes may require regular maintenance
HOT TIP
Choose drought-tolerant plants for higher boxes, as they may dry out faster.
10. Repurposed Rain Gutter Garden
Difficulty Level: Moderate | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Outdoor Fences and Walls
A repurposed rain gutter garden makes use of old rain gutters, creating a unique and functional DIY vertical garden. It’s perfect for small outdoor areas where ground space is limited.
Materials Needed:
- Rain gutters, end caps, hangers
- Potting soil, selected plants
- Drill and screws
Reusing Tip: Look for used gutters at home improvement stores or recycling centers.
Instructions:
- Cut gutters to the desired length, seal ends with caps and drill drainage holes.
- Mount gutters on a sturdy surface like a fence or wall using hangers.
- Fill with soil and plant suitable varieties.
Ideal Plants for Rain Gutters:
- Herbs: Oregano, chives, parsley
- Vegetables: Leafy greens, radishes
- Flowers: Small annuals like alyssum
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Great for fences or walls
- Reuses old materials, eco-friendly
Cons
- May need frequent watering
- Limited soil for larger plants
HOT TIP
Grow shallow-rooted plants to make the most of the limited soil space in rain gutters.
11. Wire Mesh Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Moderate | Cost: Low | Best for: Indoor and Outdoor Walls
This is a versatile and budget-friendly DIY vertical garden project that’s easy to assemble. This design works well for indoor or outdoor spaces and allows for a variety of plants.
Materials Needed:
- Sturdy wire mesh, wooden or metal frame
- Small pots or containers, potting soil
- Drill, screws, pliers
Reusing Tip: Try using leftover mesh from fencing or home repairs for a cost-effective option.
Instructions:
- Attach wire mesh to your chosen frame.
- Secure the frame to a wall or fence, ensuring it can support the weight of pots and plants.
- Attach small pots to the mesh using metal clips.
Ideal Plants for Wire Mesh Gardens:
- Herbs: Mint, thyme, oregano
- Flowers: Marigolds, nasturtiums
- Succulents: Sedum, kalanchoe
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Budget-friendly and flexible
- Suitable for various plants
Cons
- May need reinforcement for heavier plants
- Limited space in small pots
HOT TIP
Use colored pots to add extra style and visual interest.
12. Recycled Plastic Bottle Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Low | Best for: Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
A recycled plastic bottle garden is a sustainable and budget-friendly way to create a DIY vertical garden. Using empty bottles as planters reduces waste and adds greenery to your home.
Materials Needed:
- Clean plastic bottles
- Potting soil, plants
- Sharp knife, drill, wire cutters
Reusing Tip: Collect used bottles from home to create a completely free DIY vertical garden setup.
Instructions:
- Cut the bottom off each bottle, and drill drainage holes.
- Hang bottles on a wall or frame with wire or string.
- Fill with soil and plant suitable varieties.
Ideal Plants for Plastic Bottles:
- Herbs: Basil, cilantro, thyme
- Flowers: Petunias, marigolds
- Succulents: Echeveria, jade plant
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Eco-friendly and budget-friendly
- Lightweight and versatile
Cons
- Bottles may degrade over time
- Limited root space for larger plants
HOT TIP
Paint bottles white to reduce heat absorption and protect roots from sunlight.
13. Hanging Glass Terrarium Garden
Difficulty Level: Easy | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Indoor Spaces
This vertical garden DIY idea is a stylish way to add greenery indoors. These mini-ecosystems are perfect for small spaces and offer a unique, decorative touch.
Materials Needed:
- Glass terrariums, potting soil, small plants
- Decorative rocks, activated charcoal, hanging mechanisms
Reusing Tip: Check thrift stores or online resale sites for affordable glass containers.
Instructions:
- Add a layer of rocks for drainage, followed by activated charcoal.
- Add potting soil and carefully arrange plants.
- Hang terrariums in a bright, indirect light location.
Ideal Plants for Glass Terrariums:
- Succulents: Echeveria, haworthia
- Air Plants: Tillandsia
- Small Ferns: Miniature varieties
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Elegant and decorative
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Limited plant options due to small size
- Must avoid direct sunlight
HOT TIP
Water sparingly, as terrariums retain moisture well.
14. Repurposed Picture Frame Garden
Difficulty Level: Moderate | Cost: Low | Best for: Indoor Walls
A repurposed picture frame garden is a charming and creative way to showcase plants. This eco-friendly DIY vertical garden project transforms old frames into mini-gardens.
Materials Needed:
- Old picture frames, potting soil, small plants
- Landscape fabric, sturdy hooks
Reusing Tip: Look for frames at thrift stores or use any old frames from home.
Instructions:
- Remove the glass and backing from the frame, lining it with landscape fabric.
- Fill with soil and secure the fabric with staples.
- Arrange plants and hang the frame on a wall.
Ideal Plants for Picture Frames:
- Succulents: Hens and chicks, sedum
- Air Plants: Tillandsia
- Herbs: Small varieties like thyme
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Unique and decorative wall feature
- Great for indoor spaces
Cons
- Limited soil depth for larger plants
- Regular maintenance needed
HOT TIP
Arrange plants by color and texture to create a visually appealing composition.
15. Stacked Cinder Block Vertical Garden
Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Cost: Moderate | Best for: Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
This is a durable and modern DIY vertical garden idea. Cinder blocks provide stability and plenty of planting space, making this project ideal for larger plants.
Materials Needed:
- Cinder blocks, landscape adhesive
- Potting soil, plants
- Optional: Rebar for added support
Reusing Tip: Ask around for leftover cinder blocks from construction projects, as many sites discard extras.
Instructions:
- Stack cinder blocks in your desired pattern, using adhesive for stability.
- Alternate directions to create planting pockets.
- Fill with soil and plant accordingly.
Ideal Plants for Cinderblocks:
- Herbs: Chives, rosemary
- Flowers: Geraniums, pansies
- Vegetables: Lettuce, radishes
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Versatile for large plants
Cons
- Cinder blocks can be heavy to move
- May need support for taller structures
HOT TIP
Use trailing plants in the upper blocks to create a cascading effect.
Conclusion
With these budget-friendly DIY vertical garden ideas, you can add green space to your home without emptying your pocket. From upcycled containers, and plastic bottles, to simple hanging organizers, there are projects here for every skill level and budget. Start with one of these DIY vertical garden setups and transform your space into a thriving vertical oasis.
